NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1976-053A
MARISAT 2, the second of a series of COMSAT maritime communications satellites, was successfully launched June 10, 1976. The spacecraft was capable of transmitting voice, data, facsimile and telex messages to and from ships at sea through special shore stations at Southbury, CT and Santa Paul, CA, which were interconnected with existing domestic terrestrial networks. The system was initially utilized primarily by the US Navy, with a limited amount of satellite capacity provided in different frequency bands (L-bands), through separate satellite transponders, for maritime communications services to commercial entities and other interested users. At such time as the Navy's requirements terminated (late 1970s) substantial satellite capacity became available for commercial maritime purposes. Following launch, satellite operation was nominal. It was placed in geosynchronous orbit at 176.5 degrees E.
Launch Date: 1976-06-10
Launch Vehicle: Delta
Launch Site: Cape Canaveral, United States
Mass: 6570 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Mr. Robert J. Goss | Project Manager | NASA Goddard Space Flight Center |